The Legend of St. Elizabeth

work by Liszt

Also known as: “Die Legende von der heiligen Elisabeth”

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June 30, 2026

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The Legend of Saint Elizabeth is a choral work by Franz Liszt, composed between 1857 and 1862. It is an oratorio that tells the story of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, a princess known for her devotion to the poor and her acts of Christian charity.12

Saint Elizabeth, born in 1207, relinquished her wealth to aid the needy and is a patron saint of charity. Liszt's oratorio draws from her life, highlighting her piety and compassionate deeds. The legend often depicted in art shows her charity being miraculously transformed into roses, convincing her husband of the value of her endeavors. Liszt, who himself had a deep interest in religious music later in his life, aimed to create a moving and direct portrayal of this saintly figure.12

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oratorio
Oratorio after 1750
…von der heiligen Elisabeth (The Legend of St. Elizabeth; 1873), combine devotional and theatrical elements on the grandest scale. Italian oratorio remained in abeyance after the 18th century, and Slavic composers produced few oratorios. Perhaps the only French oratorio of major importance is L’Enfance du Christ (1854) by Hector…
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…von der heiligen Elisabeth (The Legend of St. Elizabeth; 1873), combine devotional and theatrical elements on the grandest scale. Italian oratorio remained in abeyance after the 18th century, and Slavic composers produced few oratorios. Perhaps the only French oratorio of major importance is L’Enfance du Christ (1854) by Hector…
Read More